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Lake City Fire Company

22 publications

motor vehicle accident

Early Morning Crash Displaces Residents After Vehicle Strikes Building on Rice Avenue

Girard, PA – Last night at shortly after 2 AM, first responders from A.F. Dobler Hose Company, Lake City Fire Company, and West County Paramedics were dispatched to a reported vehicle-into-building incident near 210 Rice Avenue in Girard Borough.West County Paramedics arrived on scene within five minutes of the initial dispatch and found a single vehicle that had collided with the structure. The driver had already exited the vehicle prior to their arrival.Rescue 577 was the first fire department apparatus to arrive on scene, with Rescue 544 and Engine 563 arriving shortly thereafter. Upon arrival, fire crews immediately worked to secure the vehicle, ensuring there was no further threat to the building’s integrity or to responders operating at the scene. Once the area was stabilized, personnel began a structural assessment of the building. Cracks were observed on both the first and second floors, raising significant concerns about the stability and safety of the structure.After evaluating the damage, Chief 540 determined that the building was unsafe for continued occupancy and deemed it unlivable for the remainder of the night. He instructed Girard’s L2 to assist with evacuating the remaining occupants.Evacuated residents were advised to meet at Girard’s Fire Station to await further assistance. The American Red Cross was contacted and initiated support services for the displaced residents. In total, three apartments within the building were evacuated, resulting in the evacuation of six individuals along with four cats and one dog.The driver of the vehicle declined medical treatment at the scene and was detained by the Girard Borough Police Department for further investigation. No injuries were sustained by the tenants of the building. A vehicle recovery technician from Eagle Towing recovered the vehicle from structure.

Published a year ago
structure fire

Garage Fire Contained by Multiple Departments on Ridge Road

Girard Township, PA – On Thursday afternoon, around 3:30 PM, A.F. Dobler Hose Company and other West County fire departments were dispatched to a reported garage fire near 9080 Ridge Road. The initial call reported an outside fire, which had spread to the garage by the time units were en route.Upon arrival, crews were met with heavy fire conditions originating from the front of the garage. Engine 553 took the driveway and quickly deployed handlines to begin fire suppression. Shortly after, Engine 534 arrived and established a water supply to Engine 553. Engine 563 took position at the rear of the structure upon arrival and also deployed handlines to attack the fire from the backside. Engine 544 later arrived and supplemented water operations by supplying Engine 553 from Route 20.Once Platea Fire Department arrived with their water shuttle, a porta-pond was deployed to support water supply efforts on the front side of the incident. During the response, crews identified fire extension to a nearby shed, which was quickly extinguished without further spread.At the rear, Engine 563 was initially supplied by Fairview’s tender until a water supply could be secured via a nearby hydrant.Interior operations began early in the incident; however, firefighters were ordered to evacuate the structure due to signs of an impending roof collapse. Despite this, crews successfully knocked down the bulk of the fire. Once the fire was brought under control, crews transitioned into overhaul mode to ensure full extinguishment and check for any remaining hotspots.Assisting Girard on scene included Lake City Fire Company, Fairview Fire and Rescue, Platea Volunteer Fire Company, and West County Paramedics. Pennsylvania State Police were also on scene at the fire grounds.

Published a year ago
structure fire

Frozen Hydrants, Sub-Zero Temperatures, and a Stubborn Blaze: Firefighters Battle Intense Harbor Street Fire

Conneaut, OH – Last night at approximately 9 PM, Conneaut Fire and Rescue crews responded to a reported structure fire near 670 Harbor Street. Upon arrival, firefighters were met with a residential structure with heavy involvement in the rear of the structure, extending to a vehicle in the driveway and threatening a nearby detached garage. Faced with extreme conditions, additional resources were requested from Erie County, PA, and Ashtabula County, OH, to combat the fire.The call for assistance was answered swiftly, with units from Ashtabula Township, Andover, Platea, Springfield, and Lake City joining the fight. Support also came in the form of Kingsville ambulance along with a specialized rehab unit from Lake City. These crews worked tirelessly in frigid, sub-zero temperatures that added layers of difficulty to the already challenging conditions.The cold weather dealt a critical setback to initial firefighting efforts, as two nearby hydrants - conveniently located almost directly across the street - were frozen and inoperable. This forced crews to utilize an operational hydrant at 12th and Beaver Streets, approximately a couple of blocks away. To maintain a steady water supply, a tanker shuttle task force was employed, highlighting the need for tankers and also the dedication and coordination of all responding units.As the fire continued, crews faced additional challenges when it was discovered that the basement stairs had burned out, leaving no direct access to the fire’s source. This required innovative tactics, including the deployment of cellar nozzles through holes cut in the floor above the basement. Despite these efforts, the stubborn blaze, coupled with the punishing cold, kept firefighters on the scene for an extended period.Ultimately, the fire was brought under control through sheer determination, expertise, and teamwork. The combined efforts of local and neighboring fire departments showcased their commitment to protecting lives and property, even under the harshest conditions. One individual was transported from the scene to University Hospital’s Brown Memorial for medical treatment.

Published a year ago
motor vehicle accident

Late-Night Rollover Accident in Springfield Township: Four Transported, Roadway Cleared

Springfield Township, PA – Last night, at approximately 10:15 PM, crews from Springfield Volunteer Fire Company and West County Paramedics were dispatched to a reported motor vehicle accident involving a rollover near 13200 West Lake Road in Springfield Township. Initial reports indicated that one person was trapped in the vehicle. Due to the nature of the incident, STAT MedEvac was placed on standby.Engine 643 and Utility 646 responded to the scene alongside West County 111. Engine 643 arrived shortly after West County 111, and Chief 640 reported one vehicle with heavy damage but no entrapment.Chief 640 confirmed four patients and requested additional ambulances. He also called for support from Penelec, Windstream, and a PennDOT plow truck due to conditions at the scene. West County 113 and Lake City’s Ambulance 577 were dispatched to assist. STAT MedEvac was stood down. Ultimately, four patients were transported to UPMC Hamot: two on WC 111, one on WC 113, and one on 577.Springfield personnel remained at the scene while Eagle Towing recovered the wrecked vehicle. Crews cleared debris from the roadway and nearby yards. A PennDOT plow truck was used to clear snow from the roadway resulting from the accident. Pennsylvania State Police were on scene investigating.

Published a year ago
structure fire

Fairview Firefighters Contain Stove Fire, Rescue Pets from Home

Fairview Township, PA – This afternoon, shortly before 12:30 PM, Fairview Fire and Rescue, along with mutual aid departments, responded to a reported stove fire in the area of 5800 Dobler Road, between Barker and Antolik Roads. En route, responders were informed that a pot on the stove had ignited, burning the cupboards and the area behind the stove. It was also confirmed that all occupants had safely exited the house. Ambulance 527 arrived first on the scene and reported smoke visible on the delta side of the residence.Engine 534 arrived moments later, and Chief 530 assumed command. Crews initially used a water can to suppress the fire in the affected area. While checking for extension, firefighters discovered potential fire spread into the ceiling. Engine 563 and Rescue 544 were called up from their staging locations, with Rescue 544 bringing an additional water can. Shortly after, Lake City crews confirmed fire in the attic. Fairview teams deployed handlines to the interior and rear of the structure, while command requested an additional tanker from Franklin Township.Girard’s 541 reported significant fire and heat in the attic. Lake City crews tackled flames in the eaves and rear vent in the gable, while interior teams worked to gain access to the ceiling from within. As crews made progress, fire became visible along the roofline where it met the second story. Additionally, fire was reported in the second story within a room near the room. Exterior teams quickly extinguished the bulk of these flames, while interior crews made access through the second floor room to the attic above where the fire originated.The fire was brought under control without incident. No injuries were reported, and firefighters successfully rescued several cats from the structure.Fairview crews were assisted on scene by Lake Shore, Girard, Lake City, Franklin Township, West Ridge, and McKean fire departments.

Published a year ago
vegetation fire

Lake City Crews Respond to Reported Brush Fire on West Lake Road

Girard Township, PA – Around 1 AM this morning Lake City Fire Company were dispatched to a reported brush fire at the intersection of North Creek Road and West Lake Road. This call came just an hour after crews had been released from the Tannery Road firegrounds. While en route, Lake City crews requested additional support, including a brush truck from A.F. Dobler Hose & Ladder Co. and manpower from West Ridge Fire Department's Unit 475 (who were on the return from Tannery Road operations).Upon arrival, crews encountered a large area of active fire, with embers and smoke blowing northward across Route 5. They quickly deployed water to contain and suppress the flames, aiming to prevent further embers from crossing the roadway. After extinguishing the main fire, crews conducted thorough mop-up operations to ensure no hotspots remained. The team remained on scene for approximately one and a half to two hours to fully secure the area.

Published a year ago
vegetation fire

Crews Work Around the Clock To Mitigate Hotspots at Tannery Road Brush Fire

Girard Township, PA – Crews have been working tirelessly, nearly around the clock, to conduct an extensive overhaul and mop-up operation on the firegrounds. On Tuesday morning, they returned to the area after new reports of smoke. Upon arrival, crews identified and began tackling pockets of active fire along the outer edges of the burned zone. After knocking down these initial flames, they began a systematic sweep of the area to identify any remaining hotspots.Personnel from Girard, Lake City, and West Ridge worked across multiple sectors of the firegrounds. In several areas, crews discovered underground fires, where roots and a layer of smoldering “duff” – the dense, organic forest floor material – presented hidden risks. Using specialized forestry tools, they meticulously broke up and cleared this layer, ensuring that no embers could reignite or potentially spread to nearby fuel sources.Members of the Crawford Erie County Wildlands Crew concentrated on their designated anchor point, where a minor burnover had occurred. They worked along the Brandy Run Creek bed, where challenging, steep terrain added to the difficulty of the task. Crews worked extensively to ensure that all hotspots were eliminated and ensured that a fireline was well established in the area.Support came from additional crews and resources from A.F. Dobler Hose & Ladder Co., Lake City Fire Company, Platea Volunteer Fire Company, Edinboro Volunteer Fire Department, West Ridge Fire Department, Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Department, and Fuller Hose Company #1, all working together to ensure the area was thoroughly secured.

Published a year ago
vegetation fire

Firefighters Respond to Rekindled Tannery Road Blaze, Deploying Backburning and Firelines to Contain Spread

Girard Township, PA – Overnight, crews were dispatched again to the area around 9000 Tannery Road due to reports of a rekindle at the previous Tannery Road brush fire. 541 arrived on scene, confirmed the reports, and called for additional support from Lake City, Springfield, and Platea. The rekindled fire was located approximately 200-300 yards off the access road being used by crews. 541 informed incoming units that roughly 1.5-2 acres were actively burning, with flames spreading rapidly. Two additional tankers were requested, including units from Platea and Franklin Township.As brush trucks arrived, crews moved quickly to establish a fireline around the active burn area using forestry rakes and backpack leaf blowers, successfully cutting off the fire’s fuel source and allowing it to burn out. Multiple forestry lines, stretching several hundred feet, were deployed through the woods to address hotspots throughout the burned area. Crews observed that the fire had spread from a valley area to the location of the previous burn site.Due to the topography of the area, crews were unable to create an effective fireline by means of physical interactions with the environment. Fire crews instead constructed a fireline further ahead of the advancing flames and conducted a controlled backburn, reinforcing the fireline and reducing fuel in the area. This combination of controlled fire use, preemptive firelines, and backburning helped firefighters manage key aspects of the wildfire, including heat, flame intensity, and spread direction. The use of fire, allowed crews to remove fuel from the area in a controlled manner. The use of controlled burns, backburning, and firelines is a common and effective strategy in wildfire management.Assisting A.F. Dobler Hose & Ladder Co. on scene included the support of Lake City Fire Company, Springfield Vol. Fire Dept., Platea Volunteer Fire Company, and Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Department. Members of the Crawford Erie County Wildlands Crew were on scene.

Published a year ago
vegetation fire

Wind-Driven Brush Fire in Girard Township Engulfs Structures, Requires Multi-Agency Effort

Girard Township, PA – Overnight, around midnight, A.F. Dobler Hose & Ladder Co. was dispatched to a reported brush fire near 9160 Tannery Road. Erie County 911 received multiple calls, with one caller reporting explosions and another noting that the fire was spreading toward their home. Soon after, Fairview Fire and Rescue and Springfield Vol. Fire Dept. crews were dispatched to assist Girard. Upon arrival, 5401 reported heavy fire involvement and requested an additional tanker truck.Chief 540 arrived shortly afterward and immediately requested two more brush trucks and another engine. Lake City Fire Company was deployed for an engine, and Cranesville Volunteer Fire Department and Mckean Hose Company provided additional brush trucks. On scene, crews began pulling handlines and worked to establish firelines on the east and south sides of the blaze. Strong winds and challenging terrain complicated the response efforts.Crews confirmed that two structures had been destroyed and were already on the ground upon their arrival. Two vehicles were also found burning in the woods. The fire had spread across multiple acres of leaves and brush, requiring hours of work to contain, establish firelines, and complete mop-up operations across the affected area.Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Department (for a tanker) along with Edinboro Volunteer Fire Department (for a brush truck and UTV) were also on scene.No further details are available at this time, and the cause of the fire remains undetermined. The fire marshal has been notified.Remember: there is a heightened fire threat due to the unusually dry conditions this season. The area remains highly susceptible to fire, with dry fuel, low relative humidity, and breezy conditions creating ideal circumstances for rapid fire growth and spread. Even small fires can become difficult to control under these conditions. To help prevent further risk, please take extra caution outdoors and avoid burning activities during this dry spell.

Published a year ago
vegetation fire

McKean Hose Company Battles Growing Brush Fire with Aid from Local Crews

McKean Township, PA – This evening, at around 5 PM, McKean Hose Company was dispatched to a reported brush fire near 8400 Pagan Road. 40L8 proceeded to the scene while Chief 400 responded to the station. Upon arrival, 40L8 requested assistance from two additional companies for brush trucks and asked Chief 400 to bring Brush Truck 409.Once on scene and with a better assessment of the situation, 40L8 reported an active fire spreading across approximately five acres, advancing quickly northward. Chief 400 was advised of the fire’s size, and the need for the Crawford Erie County Wildland Fire Crew was established. In the early stages of the operation, Lake City was requested to deploy a drone for aerial surveillance, helping ensure complete containment and to monitor for any embers that could ignite downwind.Tanker 435 was positioned at a hydrant on Pagan Road to fill brush trucks. On the fireground, crews began by cutting a fireline around the perimeter, while additional teams used Indian tanks to apply water in areas beyond the reach of forestry hoses. After establishing a fireline, crews reinforced it and commenced mop-up procedures to fully secure the area. The CEC Wildlands Crew assisted by cutting down trees that had ignited.Assisting McKean on scene included the support of Edinboro, Perry-Hi-Way, and the Crawford Erie County Wildland Fire Crew.The cause of the fire is due to an uncontrolled outside fire. Today’s incident underscores the heightened fire threat due to the unusually dry conditions this season. Despite recent light rain, the area remains highly susceptible to fire, with dry fuel, low relative humidity, and breezy conditions creating ideal circumstances for rapid fire growth and spread. Even small fires can become difficult to control under these conditions. To help prevent further risk, please take extra caution outdoors and avoid burning activities during this dry spell.

Published a year ago
vegetation fire

Multi-Agency Teams Tackle Massive Brush Fire in Hours-Long Operation Amid Dry Conditions

Girard Township, PA – Yesterday, at around 7:40 AM, crews from Lake City Fire Company were dispatched to a reported outdoor fire near Camp Sherwin and Hartley Road. The initial caller noted that the fire was approximately 50 feet from their propane tanks, located behind the house and extending into nearby yards along Hartley Road. As Erie County dispatch gathered more details, they identified Hartley Road as the best access point for first responders, allowing them to quickly reach the fire line and protect nearby assets. This update also prompted Fairview Fire and Rescue to join the response as the location was further clarified.Based on additional information, unit 560 requested assistance from A.F. Dobler Hose for a brush truck. Shortly after, Girard’s 548 and Fairview’s 534 proceeded en route to the scene. Unit 571 was first to arrive, initially reporting a fire spanning half an acre. On arrival, unit 560 noted that a creek provided a natural barrier for the house and propane tank but observed that the fire was spreading north rapidly. In response, 560 called in brush trucks from Springfield and Cranesville.Soon after, engine 644 and brush trucks 609 and 649 joined the response. Unit 560 provided updates indicating extensive brush piles and trees burning in the area, with heavy smoke and embers traveling north. Due to the risk of spot fires from falling embers, 560 requested a unit downwind to monitor potential ignition points.Unit 531 then requested Lake Shore Fire Department’s support. Command was transferred from 560 to 531, allowing 560 to focus on operations within the woods. Chief 650 assigned units 649 and 644 to respond to Camp Sherwin, allowing access to the western side of the fire. The north side was contained with fire breaks in place, aided by Camp Sherwin employees who assisted the firefighting efforts.By approximately 9 AM, the fire was declared under control. Crews pulled a one-inch forestry line from engine 644 to extinguish remaining brush piles still burning in the woods. A forestry specialist from the DCNR arrived to assist with the investigation. Crews continued their work until around 1 PM when the remaining personnel began to wrap up operations. The fire was reported to be just over an acre.This incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with burning during dry conditions. Despite recent light rain, the area remains highly susceptible to fire.

Published a year ago
commercial structure fire

Crews Respond to Reported Commercial Structure Fire in Girard

Girard, PA – On Tuesday evening at approximately 6:45 PM, A.F. Dobler Hose fire personnel were dispatched to a reported structure fire near 840 East Main Street. While Engine 534 and Engine 553 were en route, crews were informed of a fire in the southeastern corner of the building, with all occupants safely evacuated. Responding units were also advised that Girard Police were on scene and that the visible flames were extinguished.Engine 553 arrived first to find a single-story brick and steel industrial building with a light haze inside, but no active fire. Chief 541 assumed command of the East Main Street incident, with Engine 534 and Ladder 549 arriving shortly after. On scene, crews used thermal imaging cameras to confirm that the fire had been fully extinguished, while additional teams ventilated the structure to clear remaining smoke. All other incoming units were placed back in service by Command 541.Girard Police, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Fire Marshal were on scene investigating. The Erie City Fire Departments’ Accelerant Detection Dog was brought to the scene to assist with the investigation. Anyone with further information is urged to contact the Girard Police Department at (814) 774-2651 or the Pennsylvania State Police in Girard at (814) 774-9611.

Published a year ago
rescue

Stranded Kayakers Rescued by Boat from Lake Erie Shoreline

Fairview Township, PA – This afternoon, shortly after 4 PM, rescue personnel from Lake Shore Fire Department and Fairview Fire and Rescue were dispatched for a technical rescue near Lake Shore Country Club. It was reported that two individuals were stranded on the beach, uninjured, but unable to return to Walnut Creek Access due to rough wave conditions. The steep and hazardous bluff made it impossible for them to climb to safety.Lake Shore Fire Department’s 511 reported that the bluff offered no safe access points to reach the beach. As a result, 511 requested Lake City Fire Company to respond with a boat for a shoreline rescue. Meanwhile, Fairview personnel (from Utility 529) continued scouting the bluff for any potential rescue points as a contingency plan. Ladder 509 arrived to Lake Shore Country Club, while Utility 504 proceeded to Walnut Creek Access to coordinate operations with Lake City’s 578 and 579 units.When Lake City arrived on scene with their SeaLegs amphibious rescue boat, a Lake Shore crew member joined the boat team. During this time, Lake City’s drone was launched from Lake Shore Country Club and quickly located the stranded individuals using thermal and visible imaging cameras. The drone operator confirmed their position and identified two kayaks on the beach with the individuals, providing critical information to the crews.While water rescue personnel from Lake City and Lake Shore navigated to the location, Fairview’s team prepared rigging for a potential bluff rescue if needed. Lake City’s 578 was able to drive onto the beach using its specialized drive wheels, and the drone provided aerial overwatch to ensure command had real-time situational awareness.Both individuals, along with their kayaks, were safely transported back to Walnut Creek Access without incident, thanks to the seamless coordination and expertise of all responding agencies.

Published a year ago
motor vehicle accident

Quick Action by First Responders and School District Following Bus Accident

Girard Township, PA – This afternoon, at approximately 3:45 PM, first responders from the Lake City Fire Company and West County Paramedics were dispatched to a reported head-on collision between a school bus and a car at the intersection of Middle Road and Nursery Road. West County units 111, 112, 113, and Cranesville 607 responded to the scene. Upon arrival, Chief 560 confirmed two vehicles involved with minor to moderate damage. It was determined that all students had safely exited the bus, and the occupants of the car were already out of their vehicle. Following this, all units except West County 111 were released and returned to service. EMS personnel evaluated a few students on-site, and Middle Road was temporarily closed for about an hour between Mechanic Street and Fairplain Road.Personnel from the Girard School District swiftly arrived within about 10 minutes of the incident. They accounted for all students and promptly communicated with families regarding pickup procedures. Within 50 minutes, all students had been safely reunited with their guardians, demonstrating the district’s efficient response and communication. Superintendent Mr. Koma, Elk Valley School Principal Mr. Swanson, STA Manager Mrs. Lachowski, and other school officials played a key role in supporting the operation, highlighting the strength of the district’s emergency response plan.According to reports from the scene, four individuals were checked for possible injuries, however no ambulances transported anyone from the scene. Troopers from the Pennsylvania State Police barracks in Girard were on the scene conducting interviews and investigating the accident. An officer from Girard Police Department also assisted on scene with traffic control on Middle Road in the vicinity of the accident.

Published 2 years ago
water rescue

Local First Responders and Coast Guard Assist Boater in Distress Near Walnut Creek

Fairview Township, PA – At 9:45 AM today, the Lake Shore Fire Department was dispatched for a boater in distress approximately 4-5 miles off Walnut Creek Access. In response, Fairview Fire and Rescue, Lake City Fire Company, West County Paramedics, and the United States Coast Guard were also notified and mobilized. The Coast Guard, en route with an estimated arrival time of 25 minutes, coordinated with local first responders as the situation developed.As crews made their way to Walnut Creek Marina, dispatch relayed that the 16-foot black-and-white vessel was taking on water with a single occupant aboard. Lake Shore’s Utility 504 and Ambulance 507 were first to arrive, establishing shore command. Lake City’s Boat 578 and Rescue 579 arrived shortly after, launching Boat 578, an amphibious SeaLegs craft, with three souls on board: two water rescue technicians from Lake City and one from Lake Shore.Using GPS coordinates provided by the Erie County Department of Public Safety, Boat 578 searched the area but did not find the distressed vessel immediately. Coordinating with the US Coast Guard, the crew began searching back toward Presque Isle. Around this time, the Coast Guard made contact with the vessel.Fortunately, the vessel was able to return to Walnut Creek Marina under its own power, escorted by the Coast Guard and Boat 578 as a precaution. Once docked at the courtesy dock, the Coast Guard conducted a routine Vessel Safety Check. All involved crews were then cleared and returned to service. No injuries were reported.

Published 2 years ago
motor vehicle accident

Truck Collides with Tree in Early Morning Accident on Sampson Avenue

Lake City, PA – This morning at shortly before 7 AM, Lake City Fire Company and West County Paramedics responded to a reported motor vehicle accident (MVA) involving a truck and a tree at the intersection of Sampson Avenue and Main Street. Engine 563 arrived on scene shortly after Lake City Police Department.Upon arrival, first responders found a truck with moderate front-end damage after colliding with a tree. The sole occupant of the vehicle had self-extricated but sustained injuries. Lake City and West County EMS personnel swiftly provided medical care and transported to a nearby hospital.In addition to providing medical assistance, LCFC supported Lake City Police with traffic control and cleanup at the scene. Emergency units cleared the scene and returned to service by approximately 7:30 AM. The Lake City Police Department was currently investigating the cause of the accident.

Published 2 years ago
water rescue

Lake Shore and Lake City Units Lead Successful Rescue of Sailboat Crew Near Louisa Drive

Fairview Township, PA – Early this morning, Fairview Fire and Rescue, Lake Shore Fire Department, and the Lake City Fire Company were dispatched for a watercraft in distress near 8200 Louisa Drive. En route, crews were informed that a 30-foot sailboat, carrying four people, was taking on water about 50 feet offshore. Lake Shore’s 508 responded to Walnut Creek Access to rendezvous with their Rescue Boat 519, while Fairview’s ambulance 527 responded to Avonia Beach. Within approximately 10 minutes of the initial dispatch, Lake City units 578 and 579 responded to Avonia Beach for a shoreline launch with their amphibious boat. Rescue 539 (Fairview) and Lake City’s drone also responded to the scene. Upon arrival, 531 confirmed that all individuals were confirmed to be wearing life jackets.Lake Shore’s Rescue Boat 519, stationed at Walnut Creek, responded to the sailboat. Lake Shore’s 519 and Lake City’s 578 arrived at the vessel, which was in shallow water about 4 feet deep. Lake City’s drone provided aerial overwatch during the rescue operations. Lake City’s 578 was able to navigate close enough to transfer all four individuals safely onto their boat. The individuals were then transferred to 519, which transported them to the Walnut Creek Access. A small boat from the Coast Guard Station Erie also arrived on scene shortly after all souls were transferred onto 519. The XPO from Coast Guard Erie was on the shore side communicating with county-based assets.Lake City’s 578 remained on the scene for a short time to ensure the sailboat was secured until a towing company could arrive. All units returned to the Walnut Creek Access without incident, and no injuries were reported.This response highlights effective communication, strategic use of assets, and the seamless coordination between multiple agencies to ensure a successful rescue operation.

Published 2 years ago
structure fire

Neighbor and Firefighters Prevent Shed Fire Spread on Penn Avenue

Girard, PA – On Sunday evening at approximately 6:30 PM, firefighters from A.F. Dobler Hose & Ladder Co. were dispatched to a reported shed fire near 100 Penn Avenue. Chief 540 immediately responded and was informed that a neighbor had reported the fire. Girard’s Romeo 1 arrived on scene first, observed smoke in the vicinity, and quickly identified the source. Romeo 1 confirmed that the fire had been extinguished, allowing all responding units, except Girard’s, to return to service.Engine 553 arrived on scene shortly thereafter, proceeding to the backyard with a water can and hand tools. The crew utilized a chainsaw to remove charred wood and pulled back insulation to ensure all hot spots were fully extinguished. Water was then applied from a water can to cool the area. Before clearing the scene, firefighters employed a thermal imaging camera to confirm that all remaining hot spots were eliminated.The quick actions of the shed owner, along with the assistance of a nearby firefighter, played a crucial role in preventing the fire from spreading further before first responders arrived. Using a garden hose, they were able to control the flames until the fire department took over. Mutual aid had been dispatched from Fairview Fire and Rescue, Lake City Fire Company, Platea Volunteer Fire Company, and West County 111, but these units were placed back in service before arriving on scene, thanks to the actions of those on scene.

Published 2 years ago
motor vehicle accident

Vehicle Collides with House in Lake City; Minor Damage Reported

Lake City, PA – At approximately 8:00 AM this morning, the Lake City Fire Company, A.F. Dobler Hose & Ladder Co., West County Paramedics, and the Lake City Police Department were dispatched to the corner of Hall and Lake in response to a reported motor vehicle accident involving a collision with a residential structure. County dispatch advised incoming units that there was reportedly no entrapment.West County Unit 111 was first on the scene and quickly assessed the situation. The sole occupant of the vehicle had reportedly self-extricated before first responders arrived.Lake City Fire Company’s Engine 563 confirmed that the vehicle had impacted the side of a house, resulting in minor damage to the vehicle. Following the initial assessment, Girard’s Rescue 544 responded as a priority 2 unit. However, after further evaluation by units on the scene, Rescue 544 was put back in service as the situation was deemed under control.The individual involved in the accident was transported to UPMC Hamot by West County Unit 111. An officer from the Lake City Police Department was on scene investigating the incident. No further details are currently available.

Published 2 years ago
water rescue

Three Rescued from Sinking Boat Near Walnut Creek After Coordinated Emergency Response

Fairview Township, PA – Today at approximately 12:15 PM, Fairview Fire and Rescue, Lake Shore Fire Department, and Lake City Fire Company were dispatched for a reported vessel in distress. First responders were looking for a 16-foot boat, black and gray, with three souls on board. Additionally, units were advised that all individuals were wearing life vests. PA Fish Commission made initial contact with the vessel in distress and advised that they were under power. However, moments later, the vessel engine reported cut out and the boat was still taking on water. PA Fish and Boat made the decision to have the three souls evacuate their boat on to the PA Fish and Boat Commission vessel where they were then transferred to Walnut Creek Access. Before Fish and Boat departed, Lake Shore and Lake City personnel remained with the boat.Soon after, U.S. Coast Guard Station Erie along with a vessel from the US Border Patrol arrived on scene. Due to the emergency of a vessel actively taking on water, crews worked collectively to come up with a plan to bring the vessel back to shore. The Coast Guard and Lake City personnel utilized mobile water pumps to pump water out of the boat to keep it afloat. Soon after, the US Coast Guard towed the vessel back to Walnut Creek Access. Both Lake City and Lake Shore Fire Department personnel assisted Coast Guard with rigging and transporting the boat back to the access. Once at the visitors dock, Coast Guard and fire personnel assisted in securing the boat and then helping the individuals get it onto a trailer.This successful operation showcased the excellent collaboration and effort by all entities involved.

Published 2 years ago
structure fire

Quick Action Contained Mulch Fire Threatening Shadybrook Circle Home, Mutual Aid Units Released

Girard Township, PA – This afternoon at around 4 PM, A.F. Dobler Hose & Ladder Co. firefighters were dispatched to a reported structure fire near 540 Shadybrook Circle. Captain 551 was first to the scene and reported smoke coming from the side of the residence and began investigating. Shortly thereafter, 551 identified the source as a mulch fire next to the residence. It was determined that only one engine from Girard was needed, and all other units could return to service.Neighbors and 551 were able to extinguish the visible fire before the arrival of engine 553. Once 553 arrived, crews checked the residence for any fire extension and ensured that all hotspots were fully extinguished. The crews were able to return to service shortly thereafter.On the original dispatch, Fairview Fire and Rescue, Lake City Fire Company, Platea Volunteer Fire Company, and West County Paramedics were dispatched. As noted, all mutual aid departments were quickly placed in service once Girard personnel took command of the scene.

Published 2 years ago
rescue

Coordinated Effort Leads to Successful Beach Rescue Near Lake Erie Community Park

Lake City, PA – At around 2:15 PM, rescue and medical personnel from the Lake City Fire Company and West County Paramedics were dispatched to a reported fall victim at the western portion of Lake Erie Community Park.Upon arrival, Units 578 and 579 reached the designated area in the western section of the park. Simultaneously, Chief 560 and West County 111 EMT initiated their descent down the trail from the eastern side of the park. As crews arrived on the scene, it was unclear exactly which end of the park the patient was closest to, prompting a coordinated effort from both directionsRecognizing the potential need for additional support, Chief 560 requested a standby ropes team from Fairview. Two members from Units 578 and 579 navigated their way down the western trail and converged on the victim's location nearly simultaneously. Lake City’s drone was also utilized to perform a shoreline search and help to locate the victim. Personnel confirmed that the victim was injured and would need to be extricated from the beach. After assessing the situation, it was determined that the best method of extrication was by boat. Consequently, additional personnel from Units 578 and 579 repositioned to Elk Creek Access to launch Unit 578 – the SeaLegs amphibious boat.Unit 578 proceeded to the beach, where the beachside rescue team was stationed, and executed a beach landing. The patient, and medic, was carefully loaded onto the SeaLegs and transported back to Elk Creek Access, where the patient and medic was transferred to West County 111 and transported to nearby hospital.

Published 2 years ago